English, baby!

New Year's Resolutions

Date: Dec 27 2008

Author: nad1a

Lesson

At the end of each year, we look back to the past year and set our goals for the coming one. And this is when we start making our New Year’s Resolutions. We start analyzing our lifestyle and habits and eventually make a commitment about the changes and improvements we need to make.

You may have experienced some financial challenges during the last year and then you realize that you have been spending too much money on unnecessary or inessential things. On New Year’s Eve, you make yourself a promise to be more economically responsible this year.

The extra few pounds that you have added in addition to your increased blood pressure may call for a decision to become more health conscious and join a gym. And there’s no better time for giving up smoking than on New Year’s Day.

You missed out on a promotion because you didn’t find the courage to speak up and negotiate it, or you make too many sacrifices for others and fail to fulfill your own needs because you find it hard to say ‘no’. Then you may resolve to become more assertive from now on.

Other, more socially oriented resolutions may include getting involved in charity work and fund-raising programs or start recycling.

Why they’re called “New Year’s Resolution” is because they go into effect on New Years Day. However, making the decision is the easiest part. What proves to be more challenging is sticking to those promises we make and carrying out those changes we decide upon.

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Resolution:
a noun from the verb ‘to resolve’; to come to a clear decision or make a commitment about something; decide to make a change or improvement;

Most Popular Goals

• Lose Weight
• Pay Off Debt/s
• Save Money
• Get a Better Job
• Get Fit
• Eat Right
• Get a Better Education
• Drink less Alcohol
• Quit Smoking
• Reduce Stress Overall
• Reduce Stress at Work
• Take a Trip
• Volunteer to Help Others

***

Think about and share with us:

1. Do you make New Year’s Resolutions?
2. Did you keep your last year’s resolution?
3. What's your New Years Resolution for the New Year 09'?

More Culture Lessons and Video Activities

Listening practice:
Five New Year's Resolutions for Learners to Improve Their English

Further Reading:
Top Ten New Year's Resolutions

Comments

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happy 4 ever

Oman

i thought of resolution for this year . i couldn't find one directly. later i decided to make a resolution in changing bad things in me. i will try my best.

anilbeesingh

India

Yeah, like others i did have made some resolutions but feel bad to say that could not stick to it…. Anyway, nice to see all the feedbacks…...........

Otonashi Saya

Saudi Arabia

It was awesome , I liked it and enjoyeed reading

Thanks alot and go ahead

linhailang

Saudi Arabia

what a nice way!

marwa_fj

United Arab Emirates

I think that every body can improve in his life . but all of us need some wisdom to choose the best resolution and then go on

albert_king

China

OK, to be honest, i never did that before, making new year resolution. But it sounds very good, maybe i can start doing this from now on.

As for my first resolution i think it would be trying to improve my english on different aspects.

Layan..

Palestinian Territory, Occupied

my new year resolutions aretofeelhappy inthe life beacause nothing should make us feel sad

to be more resbonsible

to become the best student in university

to get high marks and rebutable average

sanchitadas2008

India

you are very close to my idea only… I am also not skilled and very weak in english and also want to loose my waite…... so we can be a good friend…................

longies1987

China

to be a better Girl..

happy 4 ever

Oman

i actually make resolution but i don't specify time for it. whenever i have an idea i just do it. the idea new year's resolution is awesome. i liked it. it helps me be commitment. i started saving money in a different account and i occasionally withdraw money from it. therfore i decided to return back any amount of money i withdraw from that saving account. i will begin to apply from now on.

shirley 佳

China

I just want to be happy,and flung myself into work with renewed vigor.

yawar

Pakistan

it is very informative for me and all student,they are look it after then they will be planning your new years,

Layan..

Palestinian Territory, Occupied

I hope that my new year resolution is to improve my skills in English and to to have the biggest amount of information in English that before I graduate I owns ahuge knowledge in English

mehdimansiz

Iran, Islamic Republic Of

My new year resoluation is changing myself and being a beter man

rjc

China

my new year resolution is getting a better education, and living condition can be improved.

vannessa21231

Thailand

My new year solutions are improve my english skills, lose weight and get better grade.

ramesh.sinha1

India

Yes, I make MY new year resolution year after year but the problem was that I didn't able to keep it up!And this Year my resolution is to Learn English and second one to get a good job .

maggiewangdandan

China

i think order one resolution can't catch changing,but i also make one: i will adjust to the current circustmance, nothing will retard my new life's growth. i will persist until succed,I will try, and try, and try again. Each obstacle I will consider as a mere detour to my goal and a challenge to my profession. I will persist and develop my skills as the mariner develops his, by learning to ride out the wrath of each storm. action speaks louder than words, now action,fighting!!gal